1. Gallatin enclosed an extract from Peter Muhlenberg to Gallatin, 19 Dec. 1803 (2 pp.; docketed by Wagner), requesting instructions for dealing with American ships arming themselves in port allegedly “to defend themselves against the Brigands.” Muhlenberg cited the case of the Antelope, which was “not built for burthen, but expressly for the purpose of fast sailing,” and was found on departure for a charter trip to the West Indies to have four mounted guns and “some Cutlasses and a few Muskets onboard—with about ten rounds of Ammunition.” Muhlenberg also enclosed a copy of a 1 Dec. 1803 opinion from district attorney Alexander J. Dallas (2 pp.) that no U.S. statute prohibited an American ship from arming for self-defense. Dallas added that although the armament of the ship in question seemed heavy, so long as the owner swore he had no intention of selling it abroad, nothing could be done. He suggested that Muhlenberg apply to the government for a general rule on the matter.